An Alternative Xmas Season

If for you Christmas isn't really that special and you just end up pigging out all day before watching television bored (hang on! isn't that everyone?), then maybe you should consider forgoing the Turkey and Nut Roast this year to help Crisis.

Crisis is a charity which aims to fight homelessness and empower people to fulfill their potential. Over Christmas, the charity runs the Crisis Open Christmas - seven centres between 23 and 30 December offering homeless and vulnerably housed people companionship at a time of year which can be particularly lonely for those without a home or family. 2006 marks the charity's 35th Crisis Open Christmas and as ever they are looking for people to volunteer over the festive period.

Various different types of volunteers are needed. You can simply offer to do tasks such as welcoming guests, serving food, washing hair and sorting bedding or you can use skills such as teaching, entertaining or even massage. Full details can be found on the Open Christmas website. You must be 16 or over to volunteer and able to do at least two shifts.